best casual eateries IN NY

Stretch Pizza


331 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10010, United States




Wylie Dufresne and Gadi Peleg, despite their different backgrounds, have teamed up to create Stretch, a pizzeria with a fresh take on New York-style pizza. Wylie, renowned for his work at wd-50, and Gadi, the founder of Breads Bakery, bonded over their love for pizza. Stretch offers the beloved crunch and chew of classic New York pies, but with innovative twists. The menu features unique items like chickpea fries, mushroom and muenster pizza, and soft serve with a pretzel shell. The bar serves beer, Lambrusco, sparkling Negronis, and craft cocktails, making Stretch Pizza a vibrant dining destination.


KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar


15 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001, United States




KazuNori was created to celebrate the unique experience of eating hand rolls. The restaurant is dedicated to quality, serving the freshest fish, specially harvested seaweed, housemade sauces, and signature warm rice. As the first of its kind, KazuNori aims to redefine sushi with its just-made hand rolls featuring crispy nori, warm rice, and delectable ingredients. The commitment to excellence mirrors that of SUGARFISH, ensuring every bite is a memorable one. At KazuNori, the art of hand rolls is elevated, offering a dining experience that is both special and unparalleled.


Pizza Daddy


6422 Bay Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11204, United States




Pizza Daddy is a beloved institution among pizza enthusiasts, known for its authentic New York-style thin crust pizza. Each slice is baked to perfection, offering a crisp yet chewy texture. The menu caters to all tastes, featuring classic toppings like pepperoni and gourmet options such as truffle-infused mushrooms. The secret to their mouthwatering pies lies in the high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. Whether for a quick lunch or a late-night snack, Pizza Daddy remains a top choice for its exceptional pizzas, welcoming atmosphere, and consistent quality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.


B&H Dairy


127 Second Ave, New York 10003




B&H Dairy, one of the oldest kosher dairy lunch counters, has a rich history dating back to 1938. Initially opened by Abie Bergson and Jack Heller, it later saw Sol Hausman as a partner. Since 2003, Fawzy Abdelwahed and his wife, Ola, have run the restaurant with a loyal staff, some of whom have been there for decades. Known for its traditional Eastern European comfort food like matzo brei, blintzes, and pierogies, B&H Dairy has served generations of customers, including notable actors. The restaurant is celebrated for its warm, family-like atmosphere and commitment to quality.


Umana Yana


240 Washington Ave, Albany NY 12210




Dale Davidson, the curator of the Umana Experience, introduces a unique meeting space that celebrates culture through cuisine, community, and craft. The name “Umana Yana,” coined by the Wai Wai indigenous Amerindians, means “meeting place for the people.” As a proud Guyanese woman, Dale invites everyone to enjoy the best of Afro Caribbean and Asian Caribbean food culture. She extends her best wishes to all during this new season of change, emphasizing the importance of unity and cultural appreciation.


Kitty's Market Café


60 South Front St. Hudson, NY 12534




Kitty’s Market Café is dedicated to serving beloved food to every community member as if they were guests in their home. The café aims to create a welcoming space for shopping, dining, and gathering, ensuring everyone feels happy and valued. Committed to their responsibilities, Kitty’s prioritizes the well-being of staff, customers, providers, and community members. Their continuous pursuit of improvement drives their operations, fostering a sense of mutual nourishment and growth.